Embark on an intimate small-group tour and discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Lebanon’s Qadisha Valley, Bcharre, and the ancient Cedars of God. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience as you visit the Gibran Museum, the serene Monastery of Saint Anthony, and indulge in a delightful local lunch. Explore this captivating region in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, and uncover the stories that have shaped the lives of the people who call this place home. What lies in store for you on this unforgettable journey?
Key Points
- This small-group tour from Beirut explores the natural and cultural highlights of the Mount Lebanon region, including the Qadisha Valley and the town of Bcharre.
- The tour features visits to the ancient Cedars of God forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great.
- The tour includes lunch and admission to all museums and sites, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive experience.
- The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, providing a comfortable and informative journey.
- The tour has received exceptional reviews, with praise for the scenic beauty, knowledgeable guide, and overall memorable and fulfilling experience.
Tour Overview
This small-group tour from Beirut transports travelers to the stunning Mount Lebanon region, showcasing the natural and cultural wonders of the Qadisha Valley.
Over the course of a full day, you’ll explore the picturesque town of Bcharre, the birthplace of renowned poets Khalil Jubran and Kahlil Gibran.
The tour also includes a visit to the ancient Cedars of God forest and the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great, offering panoramic vistas.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this intimate experience provides an in-depth look at the area’s highlights, complete with a delicious lunch and museum visits.
The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking driver ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour explores the hometown of renowned poets Khalil Jubran and Kahlil Gibran in the picturesque town of Bcharre.
Visitors will marvel at the ancient Cedars of God forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to some of the oldest trees in the world.
The tour also includes a visit to the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Perched atop a mountain, the monastery provides a serene and spiritual atmosphere for travelers to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Lebanon.
Throughout the day, you will be captivated by the stunning natural beauty and fascinating history of this remarkable region.
Transportation and Logistics
The small-group tour provides a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking driver to transport participants from pickup locations within Beirut’s city center to the various sites throughout the day.
Travelers can conveniently be picked up and dropped off at any location in the Beirut city center, ensuring a smooth start and end to the excursion.
With confirmation received at booking and infant seats available, the tour makes it easy for families to join.
The logistics are well-managed, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the sights and experiences without having to worry about the details of getting to and from each destination.
Included in the Price
The tour price covers a delectable lunch and all necessary admission tickets, eliminating any out-of-pocket expenses for travelers.
Gratuities for the knowledgeable tour leader are also included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
On top of that, the tour offers flexible cancellation policies, allowing participants to receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.
The tour package includes:
- Mouthwatering local cuisine for lunch
- Admission fees to all museums and sites
- Gratuities for the expert tour guide
- Complimentary bottled water during the excursion
- Flexible cancellation with a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour
Reviews and Ratings
Travelers who’ve experienced the small-group tour to Qadisha Valley rave about its exceptional quality, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating across 11 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Reviewers highlight the tour’s scenic beauty, particularly the Qadisha Valley and the Cedars of God forest. They also praise the knowledgeable guide who provides valuable insights into the region’s history and culture, including the hometowns of renowned figures like Khalil Gibran.
The overall atmosphere of the tour is described as enjoyable, with travelers appreciating the intimate setting and the opportunity to enjoy Lebanon’s natural and cultural wonders.
These positive reviews underscore the tour’s ability to deliver a memorable and fulfilling experience for visitors to the Mount Lebanon region.
Explore Bcharre
A highlight of the small-group tour is exploring Bcharre, the hometown of renowned poets Khalil Jubran and Kahlil Gibran. Visitors can wander the charming streets and discover:
- Gibran Museum, which houses the largest collection of Gibran’s work and personal effects.
- Bcharre Heritage House, a restored 18th-century building showcasing traditional Lebanese architecture.
- Gibran Garden, a serene oasis where visitors can reflect on the poets’ legacies.
- Saint Sarkis Church, an ancient Maronite cathedral with stunning Byzantine-style frescoes.
- Local artisan shops and cafes, offering a glimpse into the town’s vibrant cultural heritage.
This intimate exploration of Bcharre provides a deeper understanding of the inspirations behind the poetic masterpieces of Jubran and Gibran.
Visit Cedars of God
From Bcharre, the tour continues to the ancient Cedars of God forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s home to some of the oldest trees on Earth. This majestic forest features towering cedar trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. As the group explores this serene environment, they’ll learn about the cultural and ecological significance of these magnificent trees.
| Tree Age | Number of Trees | Ecological Importance |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000+ years | 400+ | Provide habitat for rare species, regulate water cycles, and sequester carbon |
| 800-1,000 years | 150+ | Represent some of the oldest living organisms in the world |
| 600-800 years | 100+ | Stabilize soil and prevent erosion in the rugged mountain terrain |
The Cedars of God stand as a testament to the enduring beauty and resilience of Lebanon’s natural heritage.
Experience Monastery Tour
The tour then proceeds to the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great, where travelers gain insight into the region’s rich religious heritage. Perched atop a breathtaking cliff, the monastery commands panoramic vistas of the Qadisha Valley below, offering a serene setting for exploring Lebanon’s spiritual traditions.
During the monastery tour, visitors can:
- Admire the stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate religious iconography
- Learn about the history and significance of the monastery to Christian monasticism
- Observe the daily rituals and devotions of the resident monks
- Discover the ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts preserved within the monastery
- Participate in a traditional blessing ceremony to receive the monks’ benediction
This captivating monastery visit offers a glimpse into the deep-rooted faith that has shaped the cultural landscape of Mount Lebanon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
The tour includes lunch, so bringing your own food is generally not necessary. However, you may want to check with the tour operator if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences that need to be accommodated.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, travelers can extend the tour duration. The tour operator offers optional upgrades to extend the time spent at certain sites or to include additional stops along the route, though these may incur an additional fee.
What Should I Wear for the Hiking Portions?
For the hiking portions, travelers should wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is recommended to accommodate the range of weather conditions in the mountainous areas. Bringing sun protection like hats and sunscreen is also advised.
Is There Access to Restrooms During the Tour?
The tour includes access to restrooms at various stops, such as the Cedars of God forest and the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great. Restroom facilities are available throughout the day to ensure comfort during the exploration of Mount Lebanon.
Can I Purchase Additional Items at the Stops?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional items at the stops during the tour. The tour includes visits to sites like the Cedars of God forest, where travelers have the opportunity to explore local shops and purchase souvenirs.
Recap
This small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Lebanon’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
From the serene Qadisha Valley and the ancient Cedars of God to the Gibran Museum and local culinary delights, the day-long experience provides an immersive and hassle-free way to explore the region.
With comfortable transportation and a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s an intimate and memorable journey through the beauty and history of Lebanon.
